Alcohol Ink: The Basics & Beyond

Have you ever wondered "what's all the stink about ALCOHOL INK?" Well, this is your opportunity to find out and I promise it's an amazing medium to explore. Alcohol ink is an acid-free, vividly-colored, alcohol-based dye that is liquid, translucent and fast drying. It is best used on non-porous surfaces (e.g. ceramics, synthetic papers, glass, etc).

Versatile, unpredictable, mesmerizing, relaxing and affordable! Alcohol ink art spans across talent levels and experience because it's not really a medium that lends itself well to being controlled - which is why is perfect for beginners and established artists alike. There are always happy accidents that delight and surprise. No matter what you think of your creativity, everyone will make something beautiful during this workshop; but keep in mind that creating art is not about producing a product rather it's about enjoying and learning through the process of unexpected discoveries !

This introductory class with alcohol ink is ABSTRACT not conceptual so we will not be focusing on how to paint landscapes or specific objects with the ink, just how to mix and move colours in various techniques that you can further experiment with on your own. Not to say that you won't be discovering some amazing backgrounds magically appearing as you move the ink on your paper or items that look like florals etc.!

Enjoy the simple process of dripping ink onto synthetic paper and ceramic tiles, tilt and swirl it, blow it with a straw for a dazzling effect, feather it, blend it with metallic mixatives for a rich shimmer, add texture by using felt, spritzing with spray bottles, etc.

Each of you will be a variety of amazing projects to understand how the ink reacts on different surfaces. One piece will be a 5x7 "faux" stained glass piece with your initial in black vinyl on glass (then put in to a black frame). Other items that you will have to complete and take home will be tile trivet, set of 2 coasters, 2 bookmarks with silk tassles and a boxed set of 4 tiny fridge magnets! In addition to all your play/practice sheets that you complete during your time in the Studio.

On hand to try out will be the blow dryers used to move the ink, giotto rocket, as well as an airbrush. and many colours of ink to sample! We will learn what products are available and where is the best place to purchase them. We will also learn how to seal projects when finished because alcohol ink can fade and be reactivated if left without a finish. NOTE: We will be using 99% isopropyl alcohol which does have a strong odor (VOC).

All supplies necessary for this workshop are provided in the registration fee but if you have some of your own items that you want to bring to class, please do so. Gloves and aprons are provided. Refreshments such as coffee, tea, pop, water and assorted treats are here for you but you can bring something of your own choice as well.

Preferred registration by etransfer to memoriesaremade@gmail.com or by using this ticket agent, Eventbrite.

If you have any questions, please contact the Creative Coach BerylAnne at 403.483.7270

Private group event bookings are available by contacting the Teaching Studio 403.483.7270